A recent study indicates that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural changes.
